Monday, June 14, 2010

FADE IN:EXT. MEXICAN HIGHWAY 15 - DAY - SEPTEMBER 1995Ripples of heat mirage rise off a long, straight, empty road.Roaring through the silence, a dusty, white, Ford van rockets down the highway. On its roof, a blue tarp covering a large roof rack vibrates in the wind.The van races toward the hills in the distance, getting smaller and smaller as dust clouds obscure it from sight.INT. VAN - SAMEThe Stones play loud on the stereo. Driving the empty passenger van is a tanned, sandy haired, ruggedly handsome twenty-five year old, DYLAN.He pushes his sunglasses up on his head and stares out at the Sierra Madre mountains glowing pink in the distance.Taking the old Minolta XG-1 laying in the passenger seat, he steadies it against the side of his face, sneaks a look through the lens while driving, takes his hand off of the wheel to focus, then clicks the shutter.EXT. MEXICAN HIGHWAY 15 - LATERThe van streaks past a lone roadside shrine to the Virgin de Guadalupe; pieces of fabric tied to a cross flutter in the wind.On the side of the road a sign reads: "Guadalajara - 20km"INT. VAN - LATERDylan shuffles through a small metal box on the van's console, pulling out two fifty-peso notes as he drives.EXT. GUADALAJARA - SAMEThe ring road on the edge of Guadalajara is busy with traffic. Cars surge in a seething third-world mass.The van cuts across two lanes and pulls into a Pemex station.EXT. PEMEX STATION - A FEW MINUTES LATERStopped at the pump, Dylan fills the van with gas.Three small MEXICAN KIDS play chase around the beat-up, grimy pumps of the station.INT. PEMEX STATION - MINUTES LATERAt the Latatel pay phone inside, Dylan leans against the wall and runs his free hand, exasperated, through his hair. NICK, in his forties, is on the other end of the line.` DYLAN

I'll be there in two days, Nick... I really need a day off.

` NICK (O.S.)

Listen, there's a problem I was hoping you'd help with. We have a van leaving Sunday morning and Skip is sick.

` DYLAN

That means I'd have to be there by tomorrow night.

While he talks, he fishes around in his back pocket for something and pulls out a snapshot.` NICK (O.S.)

You're going to Spain in November.

He turns the picture over in his hand. He and a beautiful blonde stare back, smiling from some tropical place. DYLAN That's not for two months. I don't know. I haven't had a day off in a while. NICK (O.S.) We really need you on this one, Dylan. You're the best.Dylan looks out the window and takes a deep breath.Outside, the kids are playing on the van's back ladder.DYLAN Alright. I'll do it, but this better be a good one. NICK (O.S.) Terrific. I knew you'd do it. Careful at the border, kid. See you tomorrow. DYLAN See you tomorrow, Nick.He hangs up the phone.EXT. PEMEX STATION - SAMEOne of the Mexican Kids hangs on the back ladder, looking nervously toward the Cashier. From under the roof tarp another kid whispers sharply. KID Andale, vamanos!The kid quickly darts up the last rung of the ladder and disappears underneath the tarp, pulling a small duffle behind him.INT. PEMEX STATION - SAMEThe sweaty, unshaven CASHIER chuckles under his breath. CASHIER Quidalo, gringo. DYLAN Quidas te tambien amigo.A hot gush of air greets Dylan as he pushes through the swinging glass doors and strides outside.EXT. PEMEX STATION - SAMEWalking toward the van, Dylan watches the kids readjust the tarp over their heads up on the roof rack.He trots to the back ladder and bounds up. DYLAN Que honda, ninos?Pulling the tarp back with a swift motion he reveals the frightened faces of three boys tucked in between big bags on the rack. DYLAN (cont'd) Yo no quiero pasajeros.Dylan grabs the first kid, as the kid begins to protest, and pulls him to the ladder.

EXT. MEXICAN HIGHWAY 15 - THAT NIGHTA massive canopy of stars stretches across the sky.For a second, the van's headlights illuminate a road sign that reads, "Frontera Sonora 10km."INT. VAN - MINUTES LATERDylan flips stations on the AM radio, passing one ranchero song after another.Up ahead, cars and trucks wait in a long line of traffic in the dark as MEXICAN SOLDIERS with flashlights, rifles on their backs, wave the cars through the Sonora state border.EXT. SONORA STATE CHECKPOINT - SAMEAs Dylan's van rolls up between the barricades, two soldiers shine a light in his eyes and motion for him to pull over.INT. VAN - SAMENervous, Dylan sifts quickly through his cash-box and pulls out all the pesos, shoving them in his pocket.A uniformed FEDERALE with tinted sunglasses on approaches the driver's window in the darkness. FEDERALE Buenas noches, Senor. DYLAN Buenas noches. Que paso?The federale pokes his head in the window and looks at the big, empty van. FERERALI A donde eres? DYLAN Ahora, El Districto Federal. FEDERALE Y, a donde vas? DYLAN Voy a regressar a California.The federale steps back and points off the side of the road. FEDERALE Pull over there.Where he points there is a narrow six-foot deep trench surrounded by lights on all sides. A group of federales and soldiers direct Dylan to park straddling the pit.From a small building nearby, another federale, the JEFE, walks out, and heads straight to Dylan.The Jefe smiles, showing off several gold-capped teeth under a thick mustache as he looks in the van's window. JEFE This is a big van to be driving north all by yourself, gringo.

EXT. SEARCH STATION - MINUTES LATERDylan stands on the pavement with two armed soldiers flanking him.All the van's doors are open. Two federales climb through the body with flashlights, poking the upholstery and looking under the seats. One of them finds something. FEDERALE Mira! Jefe!He holds up a machete in a decorated leather sheath.The Jefe raises an eyebrow at Dylan.A Federale climbs down into the trench under the van with a mirror attached to a stick. He begins to inspect the undercarriage.The Jefe reaches in the driver's side and pops the hood. JEFE We will find your drugs, gringo. We will go easier on you if you just tell us now where you hid them.Another federale unscrews the gas-cap, takes a long rod, inserts it all the way in, and fishes around the tank.EXT. SEARCH STATION - MINUTES LATERDylan's van is crawling with Mexican federal officials. One is up on the roof taking a tent out of a big bag and unrolling it, checking the seams for lumps.From under the van, a Federale begins to shout. FEDERALE Cocaina! Cocaina! Una bolsita de cocaina!The Jefe whirls on Dylan. JEFE We have you, gringo. DYLAN It's my...Holding a wagging finger in Dylan's face, the Jefe smiles. JEFE -Don't you talk back to me you little huerro fuck. We have your cocaine now.The Federale scampers up behind the Jefe, holding a small package wrapped up with duct tape. DYLAN Open it.Behind the Jefe, the Federale begins to cut apart the duct tape covering the small package. JEFE We're going to take your van apart, piece by piece, until we find the rest of your cocaine, gringo... Tell us where the rest is, and we won't destroy it completely.Dylan watches intently over the Jefe's shoulder. DYLAN There is no cocaine. JEFE You listen to me, gringo. We look for people like you all day... DYLAN I'm not a drugista.The soldier has finished cutting apart the tape, and he hands a small, black metal box to the Jefe. He takes it and holds it under Dylan's nose as the soldiers nearby shine their flashlights for him to see. JEFE What do you say now, huerro?Dylan just stares at him levelly.The black metal box says "Hide-a-key" on it in white. DYLAN Open it.The Jefe cups his hand under the box to catch the contents and slides the lid slowly backwards...A Ford key drops into his palm.Behind him, the other federales and soldiers laugh. JEFE Shut the fuck up!He throws the key down and storms off, whirling around on Dylan and pointing to the van. JEFE (cont'd) You, wait in there.

INT. VAN - AN HOUR LATERDylan shifts uncomfortably in his seat, sneaking a look across the dark, dusty midnight search facility.A group of soldiers stand in front of the Jefe's office; obviously talking about him. They point and laugh.One young SOLDIER walks over and opens the passenger door. SOLDIER Gringo.Dylan slumps over the wheel in exasperation as the soldier begins to sift through the tapes on the console. SOLDIER (cont'd) Que musica es este? It's good? DYLAN Yeah, it's good... take it.The other soldiers at the trench approach the van to see what is happening. Dylan sees them and motions them to the passenger side. DYLAN (cont'd) You guys, too. Come look through these.They begin to shuffle through the box, a SECOND SOLDIER dumping it out on the passenger seat. SECOND SOLDIER This?The soldier begins to take tapes and hand them back to the others behind him. SECOND SOLDIER (cont'd) Que es "Mix"?From behind the soldiers, the Jefe pushes through. He looks casually around the van, then eyes Dylan. JEFE I don't like looking like a fuck head.He picks up Dylan's machete from where it's sitting on the seat under the tapes and CDs. DYLAN ...I'm sorry? JEFE I could keep you here a long time while we tear your van up, gringo.Dylan lets out the breath he's been holding, and lowers his head to rest it on the steering wheel. JEFE (cont'd) But... this sure is a nice machete. DYLAN It's yours.The Jefe picks it up and rests it on his shoulder thoughtfully. JEFE In that case... you'd better get out of here while you have a chance... Enjoy the rest of your trip in Mexico.

INT. VAN - SUNRISEThe Stones again jam from the CD system as Dylan watches a sad Mexican shanty town fly by outside the window.He looks on the passenger seat and on the floor at the tapes and CDs scattered around by the federales. One CD catches his attention and he picks it up, curious as he drives, taking it out of its case.Its a CD-R. On the label is written in bubbly girl-writing, "Dylan, listen to this when I'm gone."He studies it a beat, shrugs, ejects the Stones, and pops it in. A GIRL'S VOICE begins to speak carefully: GIRL'S VOICE (V.O.) Dylan... I can't tell you this to your face, so I made this disc. During our time together I felt like a princess. You swept me out of my boring life and into your adventure...Dylan turns the volume up a little. GIRL'S VOICE (cont'd) ...You made me see the world in a new light, from an angle I had only dreamed of before. Then, one day I realized that there must be a girl like me on every trip. I've become a stronger person, and I can't sit still and wait for you to arrive at the end of the trek season. Now that I realize the meaning my life can have...He fumbles around desperately and reaches to shut it off, but he stops. GIRL'S VOICE (cont'd) I can't meet you in Spain in November. If you truly love me like you said, then I know you will understand.He hits the steering wheel in frustration. GIRL'S VOICE (cont'd) Thank you for showing me the way to myself. Good-bye, Dylan.Dylan punches at the stereo, and the CD slowly ejects.He holds it in his hand and considers tossing it out the window into the pink desert morning, but doesn't.

EXT. VAN - LATERMexican Highway 15 is straight as an arrow. Dylan's van flies along in the sweltering heat of the day.

INT. VAN - U.S. BORDER - LATERDylan pulls the van between two guard kiosks and stops at the yellow line.A U.S. BORDER PATROL looks the van over as he approaches the window. BORDER PATROL Welcome to the U.S. Passport and vehicle registration please.Dylan hands his passport and other papers out the window. DYLAN You don't know how glad I am to see you guys.The Border Patrol frowns and looks over the papers.BORDER PATROLYou've been in Mexico for four months?DYLANA little more than four months.BORDER PATROLLong time.He looks up at the roof rack.BORDER PATROL (cont'd)What was the purpose of your visit?DYLANCamping.The Border Patrol hands the papers back to Dylan and steps back, waving him on.BORDER PATROLDrive safely.EXT. HIGHWAY 8, ARIZONA - NIGHTThe van glides through the darkness of the Arizona desert, headlights making arcs on the pavement.INT. VAN, LOS ANGELES - NIGHTThe dust caked van flies on an LA freeway. Streaks of light fly past as downtown looms in the distance.INT. LAX HOTEL ROOM - MORNINGSprawled on a hotel bed, Dylan sleeps soundly, the sheets thrown to the side, thick curtains drawn against the day, bright light forcing its way in along the edges.INT. HOTEL LOUNGE - LATERElevator doors open on the hotel lounge, and Dylan steps out.Sitting alone, knitting with black yarn, in a group of couches in the middle of the empty room is a tall, wiry girl in a huge black sweater, JAN. She has unruly hair, thick glasses, and she smiles strangely as she knits.Dylan shakes his head slightly and walks to the couch she's sitting on.DYLANAre you waiting for the trek group?She looks at the floor, puts down her knitting, and nervously plays with the rings on her fingers. She speaks in a thick Australian accent.JANYes, I am.He holds out his hand to her.DYLANI'm Dylan; I'm going to be your trek guide.JANJan.DYLANNice to meet you. Most of the group is usually late.JANI've always been early.She smiles at nothing, then looks Dylan right in the eye.JAN (cont'd)It must be very romantic... Traveling all the time.INT. HOTEL RESTAURANT - A LITTLE LATERSilverware clinks in a crowded restaurant. A group of six: four girls, one nicely dressed guy and Dylan now sit around a corner table. Each has a sheet of paper and a drink in front of them.DYLANYou can see from the itinerary that there will be a few long drive days.Next to Jan, DOLF, a serious looking Nederlander about twenty-five, points to a line on the paper.DOLFWhere do we sleep in Bryce Canyon?DYLANIt's really beautiful; set up in the high bristlecone pines, outside the park entrance is a tiny campground...AUKE, a beautiful young Swiss girl, about twenty-two almost spits her drink on the table, then chokes.DYLAN (cont'd)You okay?AUKECamp?Dylan looks at her panicked expression.DYLANWe camp. It's the best...AUKE--My travel agent didn't say anything about camping.The group around the table chuckles.DYLANWell, this will be an interesting trip then.Three more people arrive at the table led by the hostess.DYLAN (cont'd)Are you looking for the Great Western trip?One of them, DONNA, an outdoorsy New Zealander, steps up and offers Dylan her hand.DONNAYes, I'm Donna.Dylan gets up and hands her an itinerary.DYLANI'm Dylan. This is Jan, Dolf, Auke, Jo, Kim and Jackie. Please, sit down.With Donna is a young, handsome, curly-blonde Brazilian, PABLO, and a shy looking Japanese girl, AKIKO, who peers at everyone wide-eyed and a little afraid.PABLOThis is Akiko; I think she's from Japan. She doesn't seem to speak any English.Dylan looks down at his passenger list.DYLANYou must be Pablo.Pablo looks surprised, then notices Dylan's list.PABLOYeah, I'm Pablo.DYLANNice to have you. I don't get many Brazilians on these trips.JO, a pretty, fair English girl, smiles at Dylan.JOAre you named after Bob Dylan?DYLANActually, I'm named after a dog that my father had in college... ran away.JACKIE, a tough looking Australian girl and KIM, a petite red-head, round out the group. They sit at the end of the table, arms around each other.JACKIEThat's so sad.The COCKTAIL WAITRESS comes by for their drink orders.WAITRESSYou know what you want yet?DYLANIt's on the company.Pablo lounges back in his chair.PABLOA scotch on the rocks. Do you have Glenfiddich?Dylan raises his eyebrows.WAITRESSYes. And you?DONNAPint of Guiness would be nice thanks.Dylan looks around the table and clears his throat.DYLANWell, we're still missing two, but I'd like to go around the table to find out why each person has booked the trip. What do you hope to get out of it?He looks at the passengers, waiting.DYLAN (cont'd)Why don't you start, uh... Kim.Kim looks a little nervous, but squeezes Jackie's hand and starts talking in her Australian drawl.KIMRight, well... for the last few months, Jackie and I have been having a lot of friction in our relationship. I hope that this trip helps bring a newness to our love life.Jackie looks at her sweetly.JACKIEThat was beautiful, lover.They kiss as the group looks on surprised, and Jan gasps.Pablo leans in close to Dylan.PABLOWhy is it all girls?He gestures to the group as the girls all erupt laughing at something at the other end of the table.DYLANYou worried? There's a few cute ones.Pablo looks around, confused. Across the table, Jo smiles doe-eyed as she is caught staring at him.PABLONo... but...Dylan follows Pablo's gaze and nods.DYLANThere are two things I say to that Pablo. One, is that girls are less likely to be comfortable traveling alone; the group makes them feel safe... Two is... don't look a gift horse in the mouth.PABLOWhat does that mean?DYLANIt's an American expression. It means that when you are given a free horse, you don't check its teeth.EXT. HOTEL DRIVEWAY - MORNINGDylan stands in bright morning light on the roof-rack of the van, parked in the circular driveway of the hotel. Dolf is halfway up the ladder in back and hands luggage up.DYLANThe big blue one next.Dolf gets down and rummages in the pile of bags next to the van. He holds up a blue backpack.DOLFThis one?DYLANNo, the big one.Dolf grabs the big suitcase and struggles to heft it up the first few rungs as Pablo steps in to help.PABLOThis is packed with stones.Dylan addresses the group as he pulls it onto the roof.DYLANOkay, whose bag is this?Auke looks up sheepishly.AUKEMine?DYLANShould have known. How do you carry it?AUKEMen offer to help me with it. It's a good way to meet people.Dylan drags the bag into a spot on the side of the rack.Behind Auke, a tall, blonde couple walk up with their backpacks on. The first one, HEINRICH, yells up to Dylan.HEINRICHIs this the Trek trip?Dylan smiles and crouches down to talk to them.DYLANYou must be the Germans.The girl, HEIDI, has short blonde hair cut like Heinrich's.HEIDIWe were delayed in Fort Worth, Texas, and our flight just arrived.DYLANWelcome aboard. Dolf, hand me their's next, then throw the sleeping bags up.Everyone lobs their sleeping bags at him as Dylan hold his arms up to protect himself.INT. VAN - LATERDylan drives down Hollywood Boulevard as the passengers gawk out the windows at the freaky street scene.DYLANThe Chinese Theater was constructed in 1927 and immediately became the favorite place to hold big Hollywood premiers. The Academy Awards were hosted here all through the Forties.Donna and Jo look out on the sidewalk, crawling with a fresh bus load of camera-toting Asian tourists.HEIDIHow often do you see movie stars here?DYLANNever.DOLFAll I see are tourists and homeless people.Jan erupts in strange, choking laughter in the back seat.JOYou're laughing at the homeless?Jan lies her head back on the seat, taking a deep breath.JANHeavens no!... I just realized that no one knows where I am.JONot your family?JANNo one. I mailed my brother a postcard from the airport in Sydney, but there is no way it got there yet... What a strange feeling. Oooh, I wish I could see his face when he gets it.DONNAAre you close?JANNo... he's a bit on the strange side.Pablo and Jo share a sideways look as Jan chuckles.EXT. PCH - LATERThe van drives north along the Pacific Coast Highway as the blue of Santa Monica Bay sparkles behind them.EXT. BEACH, SANTA BARBARA - LATERKim and Jackie run down a golden sandy beach toward the water. They scream and begin to splash each other, kicking big fans of droplets into the air.Donna spreads a towel on the sand and lies back, closing her eyes.Pablo and Auke come up next to her, laughing, and throw down their towels.AUKEThis is more like it.PABLOLook up the beach at the cave woman.He points up the sand to where Jan is making her way, awkwardly on her spindly legs, knitting under her arm, and fully dressed in her heavy sweater, across the beach.DONNAShhh! That's mean, you guys.She pushes herself up on one arm and looks.DONNA (cont'd)She does look ridiculous though.AUKEShe would look worse in a bathing suit.PABLOMaybe she is covering up some hideous deformity.They both shoot Pablo dirty looks, then start to laugh.EXT. LEO CARILLO CAMPGROUND - THAT NIGHTTall oaks edge the campsite, illuminated by the van's headlights. The group is busy setting up tents.Auke stands in the glow of a lantern and takes tent poles out of a bag one at a time, dropping them on the ground, looking nervously out at the dark trees.AUKEAre there animals out there?Dylan crouches down next to her, ignoring her question, and picks up a set of poles.DYLANHere, first, take these and slip them in this sleeve of the tent.He works the poles together, then slides them through.DYLAN (cont'd)Then, put the end in the connector, hook the loop over, and do the same thing to the other side.Auke frowns. She hands another set of poles to Dylan.AUKEI don't get it. Show me again?Dylan takes the poles as Dolf walks up behind them.DOLFDylan, where is your tent?Dylan points to the van's roof rack.DYLANI sleep on top of the van each night.AUKESeems safer up there.They both look at her and shake their heads.AUKE (cont'd)Animals can't get you.EXT. CAMPGROUND - MIDNIGHTDylan closes the back door of the van, sleeping bag slung over a shoulder, and climbs the back ladder onto the roof.He shakes the down-filled bag and lays it out, unzips it, and slips out of his jeans.Out of the darkness, Pablo walks up to the side of the van. He holds a bottle in his hand.PABLOTo bed already?Dylan sits on the roof and scans the sky.DYLANI like to watch the stars.PABLOHere, have a drink of this.Pablo hands the bottle up to him.PABLO (cont'd)Cachaca. It's Brazilian sugarcane rum.Dylan takes a sip, then another, savoring it in his mouth.PABLO (cont'd)I was feeling homesick. I brought it for the end of the trip...DYLAN... you only lasted two days?Pablo takes a drink and smiles at the flavor.PABLOI've been away for six months.DYLANIt's delicious.Pablo walks unsteadily away into the dark oaks.PABLOI'm going to take a walk.Dylan listens to him walk away, folds his arms behind his head, breathes deep the thick sea air and watches the stars.

EXT. NEAR CANBERRA, THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK - DAYSubtitle: Australia - Near CanberraIn a red and dusty expanse, a small farmhouse bakes in the sun. An ostrich struts familiarly past the fence, leaning down to graze on the weeds by the postbox.A stocky, tan kid about nineteen comes out of the house and makes his way down the drive. He's got an iguana perched on one shoulder and spiky black hair.He stops at the box, and shuffles through the small pile of mail till he comes to a postcard. He reads it intently then turns, panicked, towards the house. This is THAD, Jan's younger brother.THADDad!... Jan is in California!

EXT. SUMMER SOLSTICE PARADE, SANTA BARBARA - NEXT DAYBrightly colored people and floats parade through downtown Santa Barbara to the rhythms of drums.A woman in high heels and painted red from head to toe is dressed as a Devil and leads a man in a business suit by a leash down the middle of State St.Dylan and Auke dodge people dressed in strange costumes as they make their way through the crowd.DYLANStay close.AUKEWhat did they say to you?DYLANThey asked me what they were supposed to do here. As if this is boring.AUKEGermans are almost always annoying... Oooh look...Swooping by her, a group of college students dressed as Monarch butterflies spin and dance through the crowd.Auke smiles in bewilderment, trying to drink in the whole experience at once.AUKE (cont'd)This is like Carnival!Pulling her through the swarm of people, Dylan dodges a clown on stilts.DYLANThis is our Carnival. This is the Summer Solstice Parade.AUKEYes, today's the longest day of the year.A pregnant woman painted blue, white and green like the Earth stops in front of them and waves a driftwood wand at Auke before running on leaving Auke shocked.AUKE (cont'd)I hope that wasn't a fertility spell.Dylan puts his hands on her shoulders.DYLANMaybe it was a spell of enchantment.AUKELike I fall in love with the first person I see?She spins around with her eyes closed. Then opens them, staring at Dylan.AUKE (cont'd)Nope, didn't work.INT. VAN - LATERDolf has his nose pressed up against the glass, watching green hills dotted with cows outside Buellton roll past.DOLFI always thought that California all looked like Los Angeles... or Disneyland.Next to him, Donna gazes out at the same scene.DONNAYou sound disappointed.Dolf ponders this as California oaks rush by.DOLFIt's just that before it seemed so super-real. Like a dream... This just looks like... northern Spain, or... like parts of France...EXT. CAMPFIRE - NIGHTA huge campfire burns, sending an orange glow dancing across the faces of the group seated around it.Dylan sits playing guitar on his camp chair.Kim and Jackie lean against a big log, listening intently. Jan is knitting.Pablo holds a cut lime and a box of sugar; demonstrating.PABLOTo make a Caipirina: First, you crush and mash the lime with a wooden spoon.He mushes the lime in to a mug.PABLO (cont'd)Then add a tablespoon sugar, and a handful of ice.He dumps these in too.PABLO (cont'd)Then a shot of Cachaca is poured over the top, and you have a Caipirinha.Pablo carries the finished drink ceremoniously over to Jo, and she tries it. She leans close to him.JOWhat do you call this stuff?PABLOCai-pir-in-ha.The fire pops and emits a shower of embers. Jan gets up unsteadily, and walks around it to Dylan.JANI made this for you, Dylan.She holds out her knitting. Dylan looks confused for a second, then takes it and holds it up. It's a sweater.DYLANWow... Jan, I'm... Thank you. It's beautiful... you did that so fast.JANI brought the yarn from Canberra.Dylan holds it up for the group to see.DOLFSo that's what you've been doing. Will you make me one?JOAnd me?Jan beams.EXT. CAMPGROUND - LATERDylan, wearing Jan's sweater, his sleeping bag thrown over one shoulder, stands with Auke at the back of the van in the dark. Behind them, the campfire burns low.DYLANI'm glad you're on the trip, Auke. See, camping isn't so bad.AUKEI'm glad, too.DYLANGood night.He turns to climb the ladder, then pauses when Auke doesn't move. He looks quickly around the campground.DYLAN (cont'd)Auke? Where's your tent?AUKEI didn't put one up. I don't like sleeping in the tent.DYLANWhere are you going to sleep?... I guess you can sleep in the van.She takes a step closer to him and runs her hands over his down filled bag.AUKEI want to watch the stars.EXT. BIG SUR HWY - MORNINGThe white van crosses the majestic arched bridge over Alder Creek south of Big Sur on the winding California Hwy 1.INT. VAN - SAMEIn the back of the van, Dolf and Jan sleep, unconsciously resting on each other.Jo leans between the front seats talking.JOI am really disappointed with the American beaches.DYLANHey, come on. We have some of the best beaches in the world.AUKEHave you ever been to the Mediterranean? All you uptight Americans don't even get naked at the beach.Pablo leans forward on the seat, interested.JACKIEWhy is that Dylan?DYLANWell, I cant really say why...KIMI think it's the American version of the big-breasted-ideal-woman that makes women in America ashamed to show their own tits in public.AUKEI'm not ashamed of my breasts.They all look at her.KIM, JACKIE AND JOWe know.JOI'm not ashamed of mine either Auke, but no one goes topless here.AUKEWe can.Dylan smiles at the thought.HEINRICHIt's illegal. That's one good reason. It's against the law.Jackie looks surprised. Jo looks to Dylan for assurance.JOReally?DYLANReally.HEINRICHI'm not kidding. You can be arrested for taking your top off at the beach.AUKECan't smoke marijuana, and you can be arrested for being topless... some land of the free...She takes her top off with a smooth motion.AUKE (cont'd)Men shouldn't be the only ones who get to feel the air on their chest.Dylan tries to concentrate on the road.JOYou mean I can be arrested for this?She has the buttons undone quickly and peels her top off, undoing her bra.DYLANTechnically, it is illegal.PABLOShhh!JOWhat about you, Pablo?Jo and Auke give each other five as Jackie looks slack jawed.AUKEWhy are all the men still dressed?Pablo strips off his shirt and throws it at Auke.Dylan turns the music up and rolls the window down, releasing gusts of air into the car.A Lincoln rolls past them doing just over seventy. The man driving looks at the van like nothing is out of the ordinary.PABLOHey! We love America!Pablo leans back in his seat and smiles from ear to ear. Dylan doesn't take his eyes off the road but just nods.PABLO (cont'd)You are doing a wonderful job, Dylan.EXT. HWY 1 - LATERSnaking through the redwoods, the trek van passes the Nepenthe cafe in Big Sur and heads downhill.INT. VAN - SAMEDylan drives through the Pheiffer State Park entrance.DYLANTens of thousands of years ago, the giant redwoods used to cover most of northern and central California, but now just pockets are left.The Germans have their guide book out, shaking their heads.HEIDIHow many years?DYLAN(looking in the rear-view)Sometime before the last ice age.HEINRICHYou are not a very good tour guide.In the back of the van, Akiko is plastered up against the window, taking pictures, while Kim and Jackie kiss.DOLFDo we have to watch this?Kim breaks away, noticing half the van is staring at them.KIMYou don't have to watch.They go back to kissing.EXT. HIKING TRAIL - LATERDonna and Jackie walk together, looking upward toward the tops of the California redwoods along the trail.JACKIEI can't believe I'm really here.Donna puts her arm around her.DONNAToo bad you're not single, Jackie. I've always kind of wondered.Pablo holds Jo's hand and runs with her down the trail towards Donna and Jackie grabbing their hands and pulling them up to a huge redwood in front of them.PABLOLet's see if we can all hold hands around her.Auke grabs Jo's hand on the other side.AUKEI don't think we'll reach...She spins around backwards, stretches out her arms and presses up against the thick, spongy bark of the trunk.PABLOOkay, I have Jo and Donna. Donna who do you have?DONNAI've got Dylan.DYLANI've got Jackie...JACKIEI can't reach any further...DYLANAuke, who do you have?DOLFI've got Akiko and Jan.AUKEI've got Kim.JANI've reached as far as I can, but I can't reach Jackie.Dylan laughs and stretches out as far as he can.DONNAHow is this for surreal, Dolf?DYLANYou mean we have ten here, and we can't reach? Someone get a picture.INT. TENT - THAT NIGHTJo lounges back in her sleeping bag and stares devilishly at Pablo while he slips his shirt over his head.JOI was wondering how long it would take to get you in my tent.He starts to take off his shoes, then stops, staring at Jo.PABLOWhat is this look in your eye?JOLust.PABLOI always thought that nice English girls couldn't say things like that.She sits up, still looking at him.JOWell, we can.She kisses him.EXT. CAMPGROUND - MORNINGThe silver morning light filters through the tall branches. Auke and Dylan are on the roof of the van just waking up.AUKEI love sleeping up here.In the group of green tents in the campsite there is motion. One of the tents zips open, and Donna creeps out.DYLANYou get to see who slept with who.Donna turns and leans back in as Kim's head emerges. She gives her a quick kiss, and sneaks toward her own tent.Kim starts to get up out of the tent too, but Jackie's hand grabs her as she stands and pulls her back in.INT. VAN, GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE - LATERThe passengers all lean up against the windows, gawking upwards as they drive over San Francisco Bay.Pablo hangs out the window, pointing his camera toward the top of the bridge, as Dylan drives.EXT. UNION SQUARE - LATERUnion Square, in the center of downtown San Francisco, bustles with afternoon shoppers filling the sidewalks.The Van pulls off the jammed street under a marquee that reads "California Hotel."INT. HOTEL ROOM - LATERDylan sits, talking to Nick on the phone in a high-rise hotel room. He looks out the window at the city's skyline.NICK (O.S.)What do you mean? You changed your mind? You're not going to Spain?DYLANYeah, it's a long story Nick. Anyway, things are going smooth on this one.NICK (O.S.)So, you're staying on for the winter?DYLANI think I'm in for the long haul. I'm a trek guide.The shower goes on in the bathroom and Dylan looks up, startled, and covers the phone with his hand.DYLAN (cont'd)Who is that?From the bathroom comes Auke's voice.AUKE (O.S.)It's just me.Dylan gets back on the phone.DYLANNick, I need go. I'll call you back.He hangs up the receiver before Nick can reply, and walks to the open bathroom door.DYLAN (cont'd)How did you get in here?AUKEI asked the front desk for the key. Could you hand me the shampoo?Dylan shakes his head, and hands it to her.AUKE (cont'd)There's always a way if you know how to ask.He turns to go back into the room, then hesitates.DYLANIs there room for me in there?The shower door slides seductively open.AUKENow you're getting it. Come on in.Dylan slips his shorts off and pulls his shirt quickly over his head, stepping into the shower.The water sprays down over Auke's head, her eyes closed as she rinses the last of the shampoo out of her hair.DYLANLet me get some of that water.She opens up her arms and he steps into the water with her.AUKESo, where to tonight... tour guide?EXT. SAN FRANCISCO - NIGHTThe group stands on the corner of Columbus and Grant in North Beach. Neon signs and traffic light up the night.DYLANNorth Beach. This is where the beat generation hung out in dozens of small cafes and run-down bars.KIMIt looks like this is where all the hookers and strippers hang out.JOIt reminds me of Brighton.The light turns green, and the group crosses.AUKEIt looks like Atlantic City.Dylan walks next to her as they turn toward downtown.DYLANWhen were you in New Jersey?AUKEI was an au-pair all summer.DYLANReally?AUKEYes, really. For a little, three-year-old boy. That's how I came on this trip. Au-pair America gives away tours as part of the program.Dylan checks to see that no one is listening.DYLANSo, am I sleeping with the baby-sitter?AUKEI'm not your baby-sitter.DYLANThank god... What was his name?AUKEJames. His picture's in my locket.DYLANDo you miss him?She smiles to herself, then puts her arm around Dylan.AUKEAll the time.They approach a corner and Dylan looks up at the light.DYLANLet's go left up here.Auke walks through two parked cars and starts to head across the street, away from him.DYLAN (cont'd)Where are you going?She stops mid-stride.AUKEOops. Didn't you say left?DYLANYeah, your other left.She walks back toward him, giggling.AUKEI get them confused sometimes.She starts laughing and Dylan puts his arm around her, pulling her down the street with the group strung behind.INT. SAM WOO'S RESTAURANT - LATERSam Woo's bustles with people coming up the stairs as a server takes food out of the dumb-waiter.Pablo comes up the stairs and heads to the group's table.DYLANWhat'd you get?He holds up a paper bag and pulls out a case of beer.PABLOMexican beer for Chinese food.At the table, Jackie peers at Jan's necklace, holding it out from her neck in the light as Jan sits ridged.JACKIEIt's beautiful.JANIt's my mother's wedding ring.JACKIEI like how you wear it. I'm not much for wedding bands, like a symbol of ownership.JANI inherited it when she died.JACKIEOh... I'm sorry.JANThere's nothing you could have done... I wear it on this chain because it won't stay on my skinny fingers.EXT. DOWNTOWN SAN FRANCISCO - LATE NIGHTWalking alone in deserted Union Square together, Dylan and Auke look up toward the top of the skyline.AUKEAmerica is too big.DYLANYou wouldn't want to live here?AUKEIn San Francisco? No.DYLANWhy?She reaches out and takes hold of his hand.AUKEIt's a good place to visit. Have you ever been to Switzerland?DYLANNo. I was in Europe a couple years ago. Didn't make it to Switzerland.AUKEWe're a little isolated.A drunk stumbles past them, tripping into the street.AUKE (cont'd)What will you do, Dylan? Are you a trek guide for life?Dylan stops and touches her face. Searching her eyes.DYLANIs there more?EXT. BAY BRIDGE - MORNINGThe sun rises through the thin fog above the Bay Bridge. The Trek van races out of town on the lower level.INT. VAN - SAMEJan leans against the window, her eyes shut.JODidn't this bridge fall over several years ago?DYLANNo, just a piece fell off... That's why I'm driving fast.He peers in the rear-view.DYLAN (cont'd)You okay, Jan?Jan shakes her head softly, her eyes still closed.JANI'm just tired from all that walking last night.DYLANWell, hang in there. You can sleep all the way to Yosemite.EXT. GOLD COUNTRY - LATERUndulating hills covered with gold grass hide the van momentarily as it snakes east.EXT. MARIPOSA, CA - LATERThe van rolls through Mariposa, a small, sleepy town surrounded by National Forest.EXT. YOSEMITE VALLEY OVERLOOK - SAMEThe trek van pulls to a stop at a circular overlook point.Getting out, the group gawks at the awe-inspiring view over the sloping treetops to the notched valley ahead.DYLANWelcome to the Sierra.Ahead, in the valley, tendrils of the Yosemite and Mist Falls reach down, blowing over the valley floor.Jan is transfixed.JANIt's really the most beautiful place I've ever seen.She moves to sit on a small rock wall and stumbles.DYLANYou okay?JANI'm right, Dylan... just a little overcome with the sight of so much beauty all at once.Dylan walks over and sits next to her.JAN (cont'd)This is what I've always pictured Heaven looking like.DYLANWhat part of Australia are you from, Jan? I know that Kim and Jackie are from Sydney, but I don't think you've ever said.Jan shakes herself out of her reverie, still unable to take her eyes off the valley.JANWell, it's quite a ways from Sydney. In fact, I've never been to the coast of Oz... I'm from a small town in the outback near Canberra.Jo comes over with her camera.JOMove closer, you.Dylan scoots next to Jan and puts his arm around her. She stiffens uncomfortably, but smiles.DYLANSo, what do you do in the outback?Jo snaps the picture.JANWe raise sheep.EXT. YOSEMITE, STONYMEN MEADOW - LATERThe group is spread out, lounging in a meadow just off the entrance road; the van in the distance behind them.Auke lies with her head on Dylan's stomach as they both gaze up toward the rim of the valley.AUKEIt seems so close. I could just reach out and touch the edge.Donna walks slowly along the meadow's edge, brushing the tops of the meadow grass with her hand, when she freezes.DONNA(in a low voice)Hey... guys... look...Jo rolls over in the grass and pushes to her knees to look.JOOooh!On the edge of the meadow, just in front of Donna, a doe and her fawn timidly stare at the group with huge eyes.DONNAHi, guys.She steps forward carefully, hands out, showing her palms.JOThey're not afraid of you.Dolf has come up and stands in the grass next to her.DOLFThey know they are protected here.Auke rolls over on top of Dylan and looks into his eyes.AUKEIt is beautiful here.DYLANYou'd better have a look. They won't hang around long with all these people.She doesn't move.AUKEI'd rather look at you.INT. PAY-PHONE - LATERIn the visitor's center gift shop Dylan sits on the floor beneath a pay phone, twirling the cord in his fingers as Nick's voice crackles over the valley's old phone lines.NICK (V.O.)The trip sounds like it's going well.DYLANBest one yet.NICK (V.O.)Best one? After three years of trekking? Pretty easy coming back to the States after doing Mexico for so long isn't it?Not listening, Dylan watches two kids playing chase through the aisles and under the clothes racks of the gift shop.NICK (V.O.)(cont'd)Dylan?DYLANSo, Nick, how long have we been doing the Au-pair America thing?NICK (V.O.)This is the first year. Why?DYLANNothing... it's a good program...NICK (V.O.)You're so full of shit! I'll talk to you in a few days.DYLANOkay, boss.He reaches and hangs up the phone.

EXT. CALIFORNIA HOTEL, SAN FRANCISCO - SAMEA yellow cab pulls up in front of the group's hotel in the city, and the door swings wide over the sidewalk.First one dusty hightop sneaker, then the other as Thad, Jan's brother, steps out on the San Francisco curb.He shoulders his equally dusty rucksack. Holding Jan's postcard in his hand, he reads, then looks up.THADThe California Hotel.

EXT. CAMPFIRE - NIGHTSitting comfortably around a campfire, a dancing glow is cast across the group's faces.DOLFWhy has America become so pervasive? I figured that coming here was the best way to see.JOWhat have you figured out?DOLFThere's this intoxicating confidence.DYLANWho haven't we asked?The members of the group look around the fire.DONNAJan... Jan, where have you always wanted to go?Jan is looking off into space.JANI've always wanted to see Alaska.She looks down at her hands, twisting her rings.JAN (cont'd)...Glacier Bay. I have fantasized about going to Glacier Bay for years, but any part of Alaska would do.DONNAWhy Alaska?JANI guess that it's about as far away from where I was born as a body could get.DYLANWe do a trip that goes to Glacier Bay. Why didn't you sign up for that one?Jan looks around the group, from face to face, then down at her rings again as she twists them uncomfortably.JANWell... first, I couldn't afford the Alaska trip... it was twice as dear as this one... but, now I've met all of you. I've never met such wonderful people before.She looks up, but quickly looks back at her hands in the awkward silence.JAN (cont'd)I wouldn't trade this for anything.Dolf gets up abruptly and brushes the dust off his jeans.DOLFNow, don't get all mushy on us, Jan... I'm off to bed. We'll all need our rest for the morning.INT. JAN'S TENT - LATERJan ducks slowly inside the entrance to her tent and gets on all fours, spreading out her sleeping bag carefully by the light of her flashlight.She takes off her shoes and puts them neatly in a corner.Her hands fumble at the back of her neck, taking off the chain that holds her mother's ring.She takes the chain and hangs it gently from a loop of fabric in the apex of her tent.Lying down, the ring dangling above her head, she closes her sleeping bag around her and flips off her flashlight.EXT. TOP OF THE VAN - SAMEDylan holds his arm around Auke, staring up at the stars.AUKEJan is strange. It's sweet that she said that... but she's very strange.DYLANWe get some weird ones.AUKEI mean, she doesn't even know us.DYLANIf that's true, then we don't know each other.EXT. CAMPGROUND - SUNRISEPre-dawn mist hovers over the campsite as Jo shoves a few last things tightly into her day-pack.Through the dim light, Dolf and Pablo approach.DOLFDon't forget to bring water.JOI'm so exited... I think I've brought too many things.She hefts the full pack onto her shoulders. Pablo hands her something as Dolf turns to see the others coming.PABLOI brought you something.She takes it, not understanding.JOWhat is it?PABLOYour underwear. You left them in my tent.Jo smiles an embarrassed smile and gives him a quick hug.JOLet's go.INT. JAN'S TENT - SAMEJan lies peaceful in her tent. She breathes slowly, unconscious. The morning light casts a green glow as it comes through the tent fabric, illuminating her face.Voices are muffled outside as the group prepares to leave.DONNA (O.S.)Jan, are you coming to watch the sunrise?DYLAN (O.S.)I think she's still sleeping.Jan's eyes flutter for a moment.DONNA (O.S.)Jan. Wake up. We're leaving for the rim of the valley.Jan smiles softly.JO (O.S.)Usually she's up before us.DONNA (O.S.)She was tired last night.DYLAN (O.S.)Okay guys, let her sleep. Let's go.Jan's eyes flutter one last time and she stops breathing.

EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - MINUTES LATERHuge pine trees arch somberly over the group as they walk together toward the walls of the valley.EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - LATERClimbing carefully up the steep trail along the side of Vernal Falls, Jo turns around to watch the light shaft through mist in the canyon.JOIt's so beautiful.Just up ahead on the trail, Dylan sits looking at the same view, waiting for the group.DYLANI wish I could get everybody to hike up here and experience this.EXT. CAMPGROUND - SAMEJan lies motionless in the green glow of her tent. The faint traces of a smile still grace her lips.EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - LATERRising incongruously out of the mountain, Half Dome looms above the group.Jo hikes with Donna, tracing their way over slabs of rock.DONNAWhere in England are you from?JOBrighton. It's south of London on the coast.DONNAWhat's growing up on the beach in England like? Your family must be well off.Jo laughs to herself and shakes her head.JONot at all.Dylan comes up from behind them, walking quickly.DONNABeen to the beach in England, Dylan?DYLANFreezing cold and covered with rocks... Beautiful though.Jo looks sideways at him.JOWhat's so beautiful about it?Dylan shrugs.DYLANMist on the water, or...JOMy parents were both hotel workers when they were working. Mum made beds and washed the sheets... We lived in a grimy, cold little house behind town.DONNASounds dismal.JOIt was.DYLANSo you came to America the beautiful?Jo smiles sheepishly.JOAt least it's warm here.Dylan puts a hand on her shoulder.DYLANIt's summer.EXT. CAMPGROUND - LATERAkiko sits in the cooking tent alone. She eats a bowl of regular sized shredded wheat. First she pours the milk, sprinkles sugar, then picks a piece up with her fingers and tries to fit it in her small mouth. EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - SAMEThe group is scattered along the trail through sub-alpine, gnarled pines. Dylan and Donna hike alongside each other. DONNAYou know, that really affected me; what Jan said last night. I didn't think she had even noticed us... much less liked us.DYLANMaybe it was us that hadn't noticed her.Donna looks back at Kim and Jackie hiking together.DYLAN (cont'd)I've noticed that you haven't used your tent much lately.She smiles, and picks up the pace.DONNAI don't know what you're talking about.EXT. CAMPGROUND - LATERAkiko stands at Jan's tent in the loose afternoon sunlight.AKIKOJan...She waits a second. She makes a motion to zip open the tent, but stops.AKIKO (cont'd)Jan! I go to... She motions walking with her fingers, but struggles finding the word.AKIKO (cont'd)Jan, I go...She gives up on waking Jan, shoulders her backpack, and walks toward the Merced.EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - LATERJust a cable ladder goes up the side of a solid granite wall. Jo is slack-jawed.JOWe go up this?INT. JAN'S TENT - SAMEThe calm burble of the Merced and the sound of birds in the trees fill Jan's tent as she lies there motionless.INT. VISITOR'S CENTER - LATERAkiko cruises through the gift shop. She looks at knickknacks, then pulls a long-sleeved shirt off the rack. It reads, "Top of the World - Climb the Rock."

EXT. SAN FRANCISCO CAR RENTAL - SAMEThad looks up at the strange towers atop twin peaks as he stands in the waiting area of a car rental parking lot. He has a map of California opened up as the ATTENDANT stops in front of him and hands him car keys. ATTENDANTIt's about a four hour drive. You may want to wait and start in the morning.

EXT. TOP OF HALF DOME - SAMEKim and Jackie stand a few feet from the edge, with their arms above their heads. The valley is laid out below them.KIMI feel like I'm flying.Dolf comes up behind them.DOLFWe can see our camp from here, see that group of trees there.Donna lies on her stomach nearby, peering over the edge.Auke and Dylan sit, legs dangling over the precipitous drop.AUKEI can't believe we made it all that way in a day.DYLANWe still have to make it all the way back.Jo and Pablo rush up from behind, getting on their knees at the edge to give Auke and Dylan hugs.JOCongratulations, you guys.DYLANCongratulations. We all made it.Donna rolls over, looking at the view upsidedown, a wicked grin on her face.DONNAHow would it be to jump?EXT. CAMPGROUND - MINUTES LATERAkiko, in her "Top of the World" shirt, comes back to camp.She walks to the breakfast tent, and looks inside.AKIKOJan?A little confused, she looks around, and calls out.AKIKO (cont'd)Jan?!INT. JAN'S TENT - SAMEAkiko's shadow looms on Jan's tent flap as she struggles with the zipper.AKIKOYou... okay, Jan?With the zipper half undone, she sticks her face in through the opening.Jan lies there, dead, still smiling.Akiko screams. She falls away from the tent, landing in the dust.Still screaming, she gets up and runs off, leaving Jan in silence. EXT. TRAIL TO HALF DOME - MINUTES LATERNevada Falls mist blows across the group, descending along a narrow trail in the side of the valley wall.EXT. RANGER STATION - MINUTES LATERAkiko stands outside the ranger station, tears streaming down her face, talking a mile a minute in Japanese. TWO RANGERS stand over her shaking their heads, not understanding, looking helplessly at each other.INT. JAN'S TENT - LATERPeaceful green light dimly illuminates the chain hanging from the inside peak of Jan's tent. EXT. CAMPGROUND - SAMEWalking down the flat trail along the valley floor leading to camp, the group is in high spirits.Donna, out in front, comes around a tree on the edge of the trail, feeling the bark with her hand.DONNAYou should come and visit New Zealand some time. The nature there is beautiful, too.DOLFThe Netherlands is pretty, but we have nothing there like this.Running up the trail, Akiko comes into view, panting, out of breath, and terrified. Her eyes are huge as she yells:AKIKODonna!She motions hysterically, but still can't find the words.AKIKO (cont'd)Donna! Dylan!Donna breaks into a run.DONNASomething must have happened. Dylan!Dylan starts running behind her.DYLANWhat's wrong?DONNAI don't know, but she is scared to death.The group, behind them, breaks into a trot.DYLANNobody panic! Camp is just down the trail.Akiko runs full tilt down the trail.EXT. CAMPGROUND - SAMEThe first one to reach camp is Dylan. He sprints in, but is then confused by the relative calm.Akiko and Donna run in just behind him.DYLANWhat's wrong? Where is Jan? Where are the Germans?Akiko grabs Dylan's hand and pulls him to Jan's tent.DONNAIt's Jan. Akiko, what's wrong with Jan?Akiko stops Dylan in front of Jan's tent, pointing and motioning for him to open it. Dylan looks confused. Donna starts to unzip Jan's tent-flap, but as she peers inside.... she stops cold.DYLANIs it some kind of animal? Where is Jan? Is she in there?DONNAOh my God...She drops to her knees. Dylan swiftly unzips the rest of the flap and starts to climb inside.DYLANJan. Jan... What's wrong?Dylan gets inside, up next to Jan. She lies there, still smiling faintly. He listens to her chest for some sign of life, but gives up immediately. She is cold. Outside the tent there is the sound of Donna beginning to cry.DYLAN (cont'd)Oh, God. Oh, God.Dylan looks around, then reaches up into the peak of the tent and takes Jan's mother's ring down from where it still sparkles in the diffuse light. He wraps the chain carefully around her hand and tucks the ring into her palm.EXT. CAMPGROUND - LATERWind brushes through the pine trees, sending birds flying through the camp.Everyone is gathered around Jan's tent, speaking in hushed tones.Jo, across the small campsite, is on her cell phone, very distressed, talking a mile a minute.JONo! We can't bring her down there. She isn't breathing!... No, don't you understand anything. She is lying in her tent not breathing.She listens to the other side for a second, then throws down her hands in frustration, slamming her cell phone shut. Tears begin rolling down her cheek.Dylan breaks off from the group.DYLANWhat happened?JOThey're no fucking help. They told me to bring her there in the morning, or to drive to the ER.EXT. MERCED RIVER FOOTBRIDGE - SUNSETDonna sobs on Dolf's shoulder, shaking. They sit on a small wooden footbridge over The Merced.The group, minus the Germans, sits, dangling their feet. They stare at the water flowing past. Jackie has a handful of stones which she tosses one at a time in the river.JACKIEI can't believe she's dead.PABLOWhat about her family?JOShe didn't have a family.PABLOWhat do you mean?JOHer mother is dead, father a heavy alcoholic... Her uncle molested her when she was little... should I go on?Dylan weighs a stone in his hand; throws it in the water.DYLANHow do you know all that?KIMWe have a lot of time in the back of the van while you're driving.DYLANThere must be something we can do for her... some way to give her some dignity... more dignity than she'd have being... What happens to people with no family when they die?JORight now, nothing. They won't even send an ambulance down here to look at her.She takes her cell phone out, but Dylan waves her off.DYLANDon't worry. I'll take her down there myself in the morning.DOLFThey get cremated in The Netherlands. First, nailed into a pine box and, then, cremated in a government crematorium. Dylan looks sideways at him.DYLANThat's a pretty big word for someone from Holland.DOLFI've studied English since I was three years old.EXT. CAMPFIRE - NIGHTThe campfire burns steadily, illuminating the group seated around it.Donna still has small tears rolling off her cheek in the firelight.DYLANI've just never had this happen before.Pablo has a bottle of rum out, and he passes it to Dylan. Dylan shakes his head, concentrating. He's got on his sweater Jan made him.JOShe'll be cremated by strangers...Pablo passes the bottle to Dolf on his other side.KIMI know what we have to do.Dolf gulps the last of the rum and, frustrated, throws the bottle into the fire.DOLFThere is nothing that we can do! She is dead! Don't you understand?He gets up and storms away into the darkness.Donna gets up to follow him into the chilly Yosemite night.KIMI mean Alaska!The rest of the group looks at her, disturbed and confused.PABLOWhat the hell are you talking about?Dylan suddenly looks determined as he stands up.DYLANI think I know what she means.He starts to walk, slowly, around the fire.DYLAN (cont'd)Remember last night... Jan said that she'd always wanted to go to Glacier Bay in Alaska.There's a long silence. Jackie stares into the flames.JACKIEMost of us are doomed to die without fulfilling our dreams.DYLANNo! It doesn't have to be that way! Right now we have the chance to make a stand for the way it should be. Maybe Jan died for a reason... maybe she died to show us that... that together we can make dreams come true. Not just for her, but for us!JACKIEShe's dead, Dylan. The Germans are asleep. What are you getting at?Pablo jumps up, exited.PABLOLet him talk! DYLANThere's twenty-three hundred dollars left in the trip fund. If you can all change your tickets...They all try to speak at once.JOOh no, Dylan... You can't be suggesting that we go to Alaska!DYLANWhy not? Let's take her to Glacier Bay.Silence falls over the campsite as they all stare at each other over the flames.AUKELet's take her to Glacier Bay.PABLOLet's go to Alaska.EXT. CAMPGROUND - SUNRISEIn the early light of dawn, Pablo and Dylan are taking down the last of Jan's tent. The campsite is quiet all around them, and they work silently, whispering.They remove the last tent pole and spread the tent out flat. Jan is still inside, a long lump down the middle.DYLANNow fold it over carefully.They fold the flattened tent over Jan's body once from the left, then once from the right.PABLOI'll get the bungie cords.He runs off toward the van.Dylan carefully takes the tent's outer rain cover from the pile of poles and spreads it on the ground next to Jan's wrapped outline. Pablo comes back with four bungie cords from the van.DYLANAre you ready?PABLOYeah...Pablo pumps his arms a couple of times and takes a deep breath. They bend deep and pick her up, struggling with the awkward shape as they place it on the spread-out tarp. Dylan deliberately takes each side of the tarp and wraps her in another layer; then he holds up her feet as Pablo wraps one, then another bungie cord around to secure it.They then repeat the process on the other end.DYLANAlright... let's wake the others...EXT. VAN - LATERAs the trek van drives back up the twisting, forested entrance road climbing out of Yosemite Valley, the wind blows at the bulging blue tarp on the luggage rack. The tarp ripples in the air as the van picks up speed, and the rear corner slowly works its way loose.It flips back momentarily to reveal Jan's rolled up green tent, strapped to the back left corner, with Jan inside.A white economy car passes the trek van as it goes into a corner and heads up the hill.INT. ECONOMY CAR - SAMEIn the economy car, Thad drives the opposite direction, gawking at the valley walls above him, but totally oblivious to the trek van that just passed. He unfolds a visitor's map on the passenger seat.INT. VAN - SAMEDolf looks nervously out the window, as Heinrich leans up between the two seats.HEINRICHWhy do we leave so early? Do we have a stop in Death Valley on the way to Vegas?Dylan shrugs.DYLANActually we're headed north.DOLFI can't believe you put her on the roof.He cradles his head in his hands. Donna pats his back and puts her arm around him protectively.DONNAIt's the only place she could go. We don't have room in here for her all wrapped up like that. It'll be okay.HEIDIAm I to understand that you did not take her body to the hospital?DONNAWe're taking her north with us.HEINRICHDylan? This is wrong.Dylan ignores him. In the front of the van Auke sits with the road map spread out on her lap. She concentrates on it, running her finger along a red highway route.AUKEIt's best if you stay on 120 for now, then switch to the 16, then in Sacramento get on the 5 North.Dylan looks nervously in the rearview mirror, but smiles.DYLANYou read that map pretty well.AUKEI've been looking at maps of California for months while James took his nap.Heinrich puts his hand on the map, making Auke turn toward him.HEINRICHWe are headed to Oregon?AUKEThrough Oregon.DYLANI'm alright getting into British Columbia, but after that I'll need a lot of help. Look at the B.C./ Alaska border for me.Auke looks again, then raises the map, showing Pablo and Jo in the first row seat. Jackie and Kim lean up from the second row, so they can see also. The Germans just gawk.AUKESee, Glacier Bay is not far from Canada... We can cross the border here... only a couple hours drive from the Park, but we could also take the ferry from Prince Rupert.JACKIEIt looks like a long way to me either way.Dylan sneaks a look as he drives.DYLANIt is. Jo, have you added up the money?HEINRICHWe won't stand for this, Dylan.

EXT. UPPER PINES CAMPSITE, YOSEMITE - LATERAt the campsite entrance, Thad talks to the RANGER on duty.He holds a picture of Jan, but the ranger just shakes her head. Then he holds up a page torn from Jan's travel brochure showing a trek van with its telltale blue tarp.The Ranger nods pointing back down the valley, indicating to her watch that they left early this morning. RANGERSaw them heading north around 7 am.

EXT. HWY 5 - LATERRacing up highway 5, the trek van blows past other cars on the road in the early afternoon light.The van swerves past an SUV doing at least 80, and barrels down the road.On the roadside, hidden behind a row of tall bushes, a Highway Patrol car watches as the van flies by.Quickly, the patrol car starts its engine and peels out of its hiding place. INT. VAN - SAMEDylan is concentrating on the road as he negotiates passing another car. He looks over at Auke, asleep in the passenger seat, and smiles.Pablo leans in between the front seats.PABLOYou're lucky.DYLANWhat do you mean?Pablo nods in Auke's direction.PABLOShe really likes you.Dylan keeps his eyes on the road.DYLANYeah?... I think she does... What about you? Pablo glances at Jo, sleeping against the window.PABLOI'm not sure if I'm lucky... but, she is beautiful.Dylan glances up into the rear-view. In the mirror, red and blue lights flash, coming up fast behind them. Heinrich sits forward, rubbing his eyes.DYLANOh, shit.HEINRICHFinally, some authority.EXT. SIDE OF THE ROAD, HWY 5 - SAMEThe van sits stopped in a fresh cloud of dust as a HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER closes his door and strides up behind.As he walks toward the back of the van, a gust of wind pushes the roof-tarp back just enough to reveal Jan's wrapped up body, strapped to the rack. He comes to the window and takes a deep breath. Inside, the passengers stare back with wide, petrified eyes. Dylan smiles and holds out his license.OFFICERYou're in quite a hurry there, mister.Heinrich tries to stick his head through Dylan's window. HEINRICHOfficer, I must inform you...OFFICER--Son, I'm speaking to the driver.HEINRICHBut, really you...OFFICER--Son, shut up before you get yourself in trouble. Now, like I said, you're in quite some hurry there.DYLANWe have a friend who died, and we're late for the funeral.The Officer steps back and looks at the bulging tarp on the roof-rack, then takes Dylan's license. OFFICERSir, I'm going to have to ask you to step out of the vehicle.A stifled gasp goes up from inside the van as Dylan opens the door and gets out. DYLANYes, Officer.The highway patrolman leads Dylan to the rear corner of the van before turning and looking him up and down.OFFICERThe people in your vehicle look mighty upset.He pins Dylan with a steeled gaze. Above the officer's head, the wind blows the tarp back again exposing the wrapped up tent with Jan's body in it.DYLANYes, they are, sir.The patrolman takes another deep breath.OFFICERI've seen ten people die just this year along this stretch of road because of drivers like you.He hands Dylan his license back.OFFICER (cont'd)I should write you a fat ticket right now, but your friends look like they're having a hard enough day without it. Dylan tries not to look shocked.DYLANThank you, officer.OFFICERNow, get those people on their way... but if I see you driving like that in my county again I'll drag your ass to jail for reckless endangerment. Understood?DYLANYes, sir.The patrolman turns and stalks back to his car, leaving Dylan looking up at the sky to thank God.

INT. THAD'S RENTAL CAR - SAME.Thad races up Hwy. 16. He looks out the window as he passes a sign that reads: Sacramento, next 12 exits.

INT. HWY 5 DINER - LATER.A WAITRESS carefully balances five dishes as she picks her way through a crowded roadside diner. She arrives at the trek group's table and begins to set the plates down in front of them.HEIDIWe should have turned you in.DYLANYou tried.WAITRESSWho had the steak and eggs?Pablo raises his hand, laughing.PABLOI can't believe what you said to that policeman, Dylan.DONNAWe thought he was going to arrest you. We've all seen American cop shows.KIMWe actually had a vote.Dylan takes his plate as the waitress hands it across the table.DYLANOn whether to keep going?Kim shakes her head, her mouth full.JACKIENo! On who was going to drive when he hauled you away.DYLANWho won?Auke throws a french fry at him.AUKEI did. I'm the only one who knows where we're going.Dylan looks around the table.DYLANShe doesn't know her right from left.Dylan gets fries thrown at him from all around the table.EXT. DINER - MINUTES LATERComing out of the door of the diner, Kim and Jackie walk with their arms around one another. The others trickle out the door behind and follow them across the parking lot.KIMThis has all made me realize how precious it is to have you.JACKIEWell, you have me, beautiful.Jackie kisses her on the neck.KIMYou really think I'm beautiful?She kisses her on the neck again.JACKIEWhat do you think?They reach the van and Kim pushes Jackie up against it.KIMI think I need to kiss you to find out.They begin to kiss passionately, Kim pushing even harder up against Jackie, when Kim recoils suddenly backwards.KIM (cont'd)Oh my God... What is that smell? Jackie sniffs at the air. Her eyes go wide, then she also backs away from the van.JACKIEI think it's Jan.KIMDylan!EXT. HWY 5 - MINUTES LATERDylan grips the wheel, his knuckles white with tension. DYLANSo she smells a little.Kim is freaking out in the back. She yells up at Dylan.KIMShe is decomposing on the roof, Dylan!HEINRICHThe smell will only get worse until her body is put on ice.Dolf is slumped in the window seat of the third row.DOLFIf we get pulled over again... with her like... that... we'll all go to jail.The van erupts with passengers arguing.Out the front window is the sign for the I-80 to San Francisco and the I-5 to Sacramento. A Gas-food-lodging sign also flies by and Dylan swerves toward the exit. EXT. MINI-MARKET - MINUTES LATERThe whole group streams out of the doors of the market with 20 lb. bags of ice in their arms. EXT. HWY 5 - LATERThe van races up the 5, past a sign reading "Ashland, Oregon: 180 miles."

INT. THAD'S RENTAL CAR - SAMEThad drives while looking at the road map spread out on the seat. He looks down the road, then scans the gauges.The gas gauge is on empty.Outside the front window the sign for the I-80 / I-5 split flies by. The gas-food-lodging sign sweeps by and Thad makes for the exit ramp.EXT. MINI-MARKET - SAMEThad stands at the counter paying for gas. The STATION EMPLOYEE chuckles to himself.STATION EMPLOYEESummer kicks in and we sure do hear a lot of foreign accents round here.THADI've just come from Yosemite.STATION EMPLOYEEThat's where they're all goin' to or comin' from. I had a big group in here just a little while ago.Thad's ears perk up and he looks around instinctually.THADWere they in a big white van?STATION EMPLOYEEYep, they kept talking about Alaska. Bought me clean out of ice.

INT. VAN - SUNSETIn the back of the van, everyone sleeps: Kim curls against Jackie; Akiko is wrapped in blanket; Jo lies in Pablo's lap as his head lolls on the seat-back; Dolf and Donna lean on each other; and the Germans cuddle pathetically.Auke flips through the CDs in the passenger seat as Dylan drives along-side the sunset. AUKEI think the stress is getting to everyone.Dylan peeks at the rearview mirror.DYLANMaybe we should stop in Seattle. We should be there by midnight.AUKEWhat could we do there?DYLANI know a hotel. We could get some real rest... that might help. Auke shrugs.AUKEI was thinking something different.Dylan looks at her with concern.DYLANWhat did you have in mind?A devilish grin steals its way across her face.AUKELet's go clubbing.EXT. HWY 5 - LATERIn the early darkness, the van flies down the highway. The headlights illuminate a sign: "Seattle - 207 miles."INT. CLUB, SEATTLE - LATERThrobbing, flashing lights pulse through the crowded room as Kim and Jackie grind against each other, dancing.Dylan dances to the pulsating music with a beautiful blonde girl. She spins around in front of him, showing off her almost nonexistent outfit. Donna and Auke come bounding through the sweaty dancing bodies over to Dylan, pulling him away from the girl, talking a mile-a-minute.DONNAWe need to ask you a question.AUKEDylan, what does acid do to you?DONNAIs it like ecstacy?He peers into their eyes.DYLANWhy are you girls asking me this?DONNAWell, we met this bloke about a half hour ago, and we got to talking... Dylan holds his head then looks, worried, around the swirling lights of the club.DYLANI have a bad feeling about this...AUKEHe gave us a hit each, but I'm not sure he was telling the truth.DONNAWe thought he was joking.DYLANWhat did it look like?DONNAIt was like a stamp...She looks to Auke for reassurance.AUKEAy. It had on it a little... how do you say?DONNALike a skull with a...AUKELightning bolt through it.DYLANOh my god... just what I need.DONNAWhat did you say? I can't hear you over the music.Dylan is already looking for the other passengers.DYLANLet's go. We need to get out of here.He grabs Auke's hand and heads across the dance floor. Donna trips over herself trying to keep up.DONNAI don't think it's working... we took it a long time ago.Auke stops, frozen in her tracks, staring, fascinated into a flashing strobe light as Dylan tries to pull her along. AUKEOh... it's so beautiful.DYLANOh, it's working.He pulls her hand harder, and she lurches along. Donna stays stuck to her spot, now staring at the same light.DYLAN (cont'd)Donna!He sees Dolf in the sweaty mass of dancers looking at him and Auke trying to figure out what is going on.DYLAN (cont'd)Dolf! Come on, get the others! We're going!EXT. CLUB, SEATTLE - LATERPablo sets the Germans' two rucksacks against the side of the brick building, runs to the waiting van and jumps in.The trek van pulls out of the club parking lot, drives past the front of the building in the heavy Seattle early a.m. moisture, then accelerates smoothly away. In the quiet, empty street, the throbbing of the rave party going on inside the club pulses steadily.After a moment, the door of the club swings wide and the two Germans rush outside, run around the side of the building, and stop dead, looking at their abandoned bags.

INT. THAD'S RENTAL CAR - SAMEThad's eyes fixate on the broken yellow line as he begins to doze and drift off toward the side of the highway.He catches himself nodding and shakes himself awake, staring at the approaching city lights. A road sign flicks by the window: "Seattle, next 10 exits."

EXT. GAS STATION ACROSS FROM CLUB, SEATTLE - LATERHeinrich stands at a pay phone on the edge of the gas station, just across from the rave club. He talks into the phone slowly, as if he's said this several times.HEINRICHI want to report the kidnapping of a dead body.He waits, listening, and examines a shady-looking Seattle GANG-BANGER hanging out on the corner.HEINRICH (cont'd)I don't know if they killed her. Danka. I'll wait.Behind him as he talks, Thad's white economy car pulls up to a pump. Thad leaves it idling, gets out and goes in.HEINRICH (cont'd)Yes. She is a white female, about twenty eight or so...The gang-banger strides quickly across the gas station, steps into Thad's running car, zips out on to the street and away.HEINRICH (cont'd)We are stranded. They left us by the side of the road when we protested. Behind them, Thad talks to the cashier. He gestures wildly, miming about the big white van as the cashier nods. HEINRICH (cont'd)I understand. We are two blocks south of Pioneer square.

EXT. BAYVIEW SP CAMPGROUND - LATERThe van's lights swing around an empty campground. Coming to a stop, Dylan opens his door first and sniffs at the night air.DYLANYosemite to Seattle in twenty-one hours... That, my intrepid travelers, is a serious day of driving.KIMYou just left them there.DYLANYep. They were going to be trouble eventually.The double doors open, and the group limps out one-by-one, looking exhausted.DOLFI still don't understand why we left the club.DYLANGet some rest, Dolf.Pablo climbs up on the roof to throw sleeping bags down.Dylan peers inside the almost empty van. In the back row, Auke and Donna sit spellbound by their own hands, passing them back and forth in front of their faces.DYLAN (cont'd)No sleep for us tonight, girls.This breaks them out of their reverie, and they begin to creep, confused, out of the van.DYLAN (cont'd)Do you still have that third one?Auke opens her locket. A small square of paper drops into his hand.

EXT. CLUB, SEATTLE - SAMEA squad car's lights spin red, white and blue. In the lights, the Germans talk to two SEATTLE POLICE OFFICERS.HEIDIShe is wrapped in a tent.SEATTLE POLICEThey have her in a tent in the vehicle?HEINRICHNo, She is wrapped in a tent and strapped to the roof-rack with the rest of the luggage.Thad walks along the sidewalk behind them, toward the police car.SEATTLE POLICEWe'll get a call in to the border and put a car out scouting right now. What kind of vehicle were they in? Thad comes to within earshot, then stops next to the squad car. The Germans still talk to the two officers.HEIDIThey are in a big white van.HEINRICHFord. With a blue tarp on the top.SEATTLE POLICENow how do you know they are headed for the border?From beside the police car, Thad listens intently.HEINRICHThey have been talking about it all day since we left Yosemite. They want to take her to Alaska.

EXT. PUGET SOUND - LATERDylan, Auke, and Donna walk hand in hand down the beach, watching the moonlight play on the water.AUKEIt sparkles! It sparkles just for me.Donna smiles at the thought.DONNAThe sparkle is you.DYLANYes... Yes!Donna spins around and around, holding out her hands, looking up in the dark sky.DONNAThe sparkles are from God.Dylan takes her hands and they spin each other, then he grabs Auke and the three of them link hands, spinning and spinning.AUKEI'm floating... I'm floating...DONNAThe sparkle in me and the sparkle in you are the same.AUKEIt's lifting me up...DONNAI feel it.They spin faster, stumbling, holding each other's hands.AUKEIt's taking me...Suddenly, they all trip over each other, sprawling across the rocky beach in different directions.Auke drops to her knees on the beach cobbles. AUKE (cont'd)Oh my god... she's dead... she's dead.She buries her face in her hands and cries, sobbing. Dylan crouches down next to her.DYLANJan's dead... but I can still feel her... all around me.Auke looks up suddenly and stares into his moonlit eyes.AUKEYou can?DONNAI can feel her, too. She is still here. Part of her is still here.EXT. U.S. / CANADIAN BOARDER - MORNINGA Washington Highway Patrol car is nosed in at one of the white kiosks on the U.S. border checkpoint. The PATROL OFFICER walks toward his car with a CUSTOMS AGENT.PATROL OFFICERIf they were headed for the border they would have crossed hours ago.CUSTOMS AGENTI know how these things are. You need to at least put on a good show.PATROL OFFICERWe try to help Seattle PD as much as we can, but we had two guys up all night trolling the 5 between here and the city. I sent 'em home an hour ago.CUSTOMS AGENTWell thanks for letting us off the hook anyway. My guys have enough to do without looking at every tour bus that comes through.Behind them, as the Officer gets into his car, the trek van pulls through the far kiosk and rolls innocuously through towards Canada. EXT. CANADIAN BORDER - SAMEThe Canadian border looks almost friendly, with flags of both countries fluttering in the wind as they drive up a marked lane to the checkpoint.EXT. CHECKPOINT - SAMEAs the van rolls up to the CANADIAN MOUNTIE at the checkpoint, Dylan sticks his head out of the window, unconsciously checking that the roof tarp is on securely.INT. VAN - SAMEPablo collects passports from everyone and hands them to Dylan as the Mountie approaches the window.MOUNTIEWelcome to Canada.DYLANThank you.MOUNTIEDo you have any firearms, produce or drugs in the van?DYLANNo, sir.He takes the stack of passports from Dylan's hand and glances at them briefly.MOUNTIEWhat's the purpose of your visit?DYLANCamping. We're headed to Banff.The Mountie hands the passports back.MOUNTIEBeautiful time of year. Enjoy your trip.He steps aside and waves them through.DYLANI love Canada.EXT. CANADIAN BORDER - MINUTES LATERA CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIAL walks swiftly out of the door of the main building and toward the checkpoint kiosks.He approaches the kiosk that Dylan just drove through and hands the Mountie there an official looking document.MOUNTIEWhat's this?CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIALIt's a vehicle seizure order.MOUNTIEI know what it is. I mean it's five hours old.CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIALWe had to wait until the old man got in at Eight for a signature.The Mountie reads further down the order.MOUNTIETransporting a dead body?CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIALWeird ones come from Seattle.MOUNTIENot the first one I've seen.CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIALJust keep an eye out. Last thing we need is some crazy American up here dumping a stiff.MOUNTIEI'd put in a call to Vancouver.CANADIAN BORDER OFFICIALWhy?MOUNTIEI waved 'em through 'bout fifteen minutes ago.INT. VAN - LATERDylan drives Canada's Hwy 1 and sneaks a quick look at Auke in the passenger seat. She points to a place on the map.AUKEHere?Dylan nods, then raises his voice for the whole group to hear. Auke gets Jo's cell phone and hands it to him.DYLANSince we skipped Vancouver, I think we should raft the Thompson River this afternoon.DOLFNo way.DYLANThe trek groups always raft the Thompson when they pass through here. I have a good friend there.KIMAre you nuts?DYLANYou came to see this continent! We can't stop living because Jan died. She would want us to do this.AUKEAkiko isn't afraid. Are you?Akiko looks up, having no idea what Auke just said.DONNAJan would want us to live. Right now living means facing that river... like Lois and Clark.DOLFNo, that was a television show. Louis and Clark were the explorers that took canoes down the Colombia River.Pablo gives Dolf five.KIMIt's not that we don't want to go but...JACKIEIf we leave her in the sun all day she'll reek!KIMThere's no way we can leave her in a parking lot all day on a day like this.DYLANWell, we can't go then. Shit.He stops, thinking, then starts dialing the phone.DYLAN (cont'd)If I can park over near the river...Jackie reaches over the seat and grabs his shoulder.JACKIEYou're not thinking that we take her with us.DYLANOtherwise we can't go... We can't afford to let her out of our sight.PABLOThe tent she's wrapped in is waterproof. What's the big deal?INT. VAN - LATERDylan pulls into a gravel lot next to the Thompson. Kim leans over the third row seat, still worrying.KIMWhat if it leaks?PABLOIt won't leak.KIMBut, she's on ice. We can't take her off the ice.DYLANThe river is freezing cold.Dylan rolls the van to a momentary stop.KIMFreezing cold?Pablo ignores her, opens his door, and jumps out.PABLOI'll help with the raft.DYLANWe'll spin around and get as close to the water as possible.Jackie glares at Dylan in the rearview mirror.EXT. THOMPSON RIVER - LATERThe group busily pulls their gear off the roof rack.A tall, rough-looking Canadian, BRIAN, walks up with two oars slung over his shoulder.BRIANDylan?DYLANBrian! It's good to see you alive after that last night in Vancouver. How's the river?BRIANThe Thompson is running strong. It's stronger than that last time you were here for sure. There may be some class fours in there today. I was surprised to get your call. Why can't I tell Nick?Dylan puts his arm around Brian, ignoring his question.DYLANEveryone, this is Brian. He'll be our guide today on the Thompson River.Some of the group look up and gesture hello as they shuffle their stuff off the roof. BRIANWe'll leave whenever you guys are ready. I've got wet-suits and booties.EXT. THOMPSON RIVER RAFT LAUNCH - LATERThe Australian girls squeeze themselves into their wet-suits and booties while the other passengers load the raft.Dylan and Auke stand near them arguing in hushed tones.AUKEAre you sure this is safe?All suited up, Dolf and Pablo struggle to pick up the bag containing Jan's body and begin half carrying, half dragging her toward the raft.DYLANAuke, don't worry. We've traveled a long way. We need to get out of the van and have a little adventure. She peers nervously at the boys hefting Jan into the raft.AUKEThis might be a little too much adventure for me.DYLANShe'll be fine.Brian is busy pulling wet-suits out of a big duffle bag.BRIANI have a large left for you Dylan. Auke? Are you coming with us? Auke looks back and forth between them, worried.AUKEYa, I'm coming.BRIANThat a girl. Here, I have a small for you and a pair of booties. You won't regret it.She walks over to him and takes the suit, looking over her shoulder at the raft being loaded.AUKEI better not.Brian follows her gaze over to the raft as the boys slide the body bag into the center.BRIANHey, Dylan. What's in the huge bag? I haven't seen that one before.Dylan steps between him and the raft, blocking his view.DYLANIt's picnic gear.Brian peers over Dylan's shoulder at it again.BRIANMust be a drag carting that load around.DYLANNah, you know me. I'll do anything to make the trip memorable for them.He sneaks a quick peek at it.DYLAN (cont'd)Besides, it travels easy. We just toss it on the roof and forget about it.EXT. RIVER - LATERThe smooth flow of the Thompson is flanked by a rough and beautiful valley. A bright red raft floats down the center.The passengers ring the raft, sitting on the inflated pontoon as it floats down calm water. EXT. RIVER - TEN MINUTES LATERBrian stands in the middle of the raft holding two huge oars into the wild, bucking river as the passengers around the edge hold on for dear life.BRIANGet ready! Here comes another one!Water gushes over everyone as the raft bucks over a rapid.KIMI'm going to kill you, Dylan!Rapids are everywhere, sending water in a roller-coaster pattern over rocks and boulders, but for a moment the raft glides through a calm piece.Pablo shakes the water from his soaking wet hair.PABLOThis is great!JOI can't believe how powerful the river is.The raft bucks again as Brian takes tighter hold of the oars.BRIANHere we go again!The rapids grab hold of the raft and bounce it over another boulder.DYLANHold on, this one's big!EXT. RIVER - SAMEThe raft is pulled into a huge rolling slab of water as everyone struggles to hold on.BRIANGrab hold!He pushes the oars in hard, trying to keep their raft under control, but it spins sideways suddenly as everyone screams.Sickeningly, the raft is swallowed in a huge spray of water and then slammed into a boulder sideways.It tips up and almost goes over. Brian throws himself against the side of the raft just in time to right it, but bodies fly off into the flow of the river.Dylan is hanging on the outside of the raft as Jan's body is washed past him in the flow. Auke, still inside the raft, starts screaming.AUKEDylan! Get her!He sees Jan for just a moment before she disappears in the rapids, then he lets go to follow her.EXT. RAFT - SAMEPablo struggles his way back into the raft. Kim and Jackie already hang on the other side coughing water.PABLOYou girls all right?Kim manages to get one leg over as the raft bucks through another rapid. Jo and Donna are still in the raft, and they start to help her in. Auke looks intently down the river.Suddenly Kim starts screaming, pointing.KIMShe's gone! She's gone!The others turn to look where she points, but Jan's body isn't there.PABLOOh my god!BRIANIt's just camp gear! Don't freak out!Pablo stands, scanning the river as Brian steers over yet another boil.PABLOThere she is.Downstream, Jan's wrapped body is suddenly visible for just a moment before it plunges into another rapid and disappears.KIMWhere's Dylan?Auke, standing in the raft, points.AUKEThere!EXT. RAPIDS - SAMEDylan is in the flow of the rapids, swimming deliriously towards Jan's wrapped, floating body. Water rushes over his head as he struggles in the current. He comes up coughing, but pushes on even harder. The yelling voices of the rest of the group can be heard over the waves, urging him forward.DYLANHold on, Jan.Dylan strokes hard, but is grabbed by the current and yanked under the froth.Jan's body is tossed mercilessly by the river as it is hurled downstream. The noise of the river is like thunder. Suddenly, Dolf surfaces next to Jan. He wraps an arm around her feet and secures his grip by holding a bungie cord.DOLFI've got you.They are tossed together over several more rapids, Dolf wrestling to hold on, until the surface calms slightly.The cheers of the group come over the water as he digs in and strokes hard for the bank.At the edge of the river he grabs a tree root sticking out into the flow and holds fast.DOLF (cont'd)We're safe now, Jan.Emerging from the froth, Dylan begins to flow past, struggling hard against the current to reach the bank.DOLF (cont'd)Dylan!Dolf wraps one of the bungie cords around the tree root and holds his arm out for Dylan to grab. Dylan, quickly getting sucked under by the flow, sees Dolf's hand and latches on, clawing his way to the root.DYLANIs she okay?

INT. MOUNTIE PATROL CAR - SAMEDriving past the Thompson in a Mountie patrol car, SGT. LADETROIS stares down at the red raft going by in the flow. He strokes his thick mustache. After twenty years on the force he casts a calm eye at the rough waters.SGT. LADETROISThompson's rough today.The MOUNTIE in the driver's seat next to him looks over at the scene.MOUNTIEThey flip her over?SGT. LADETROISLooks like it. Looks cold.Sgt. LaDetrois leans back, tipping his hat over his eyes.SGT. LADETROIS (cont'd)Prince George is a long way still. Wake me when we're getting up towards Williams Lake and thereabouts.

EXT. VAN - LATER In the parking lot, Pablo is on the roof putting the last of the luggage back in order, then pulling the tarp back over and securing the corners to the rack.Hair still wet, the group, now in their clothes, climbs back in the van. Kim puts her arm around Dylan.KIMThat was awesome, Dylan. I've never done anything that wild.Behind them, Dolf gets a hug from Jackie.JACKIEBut, Dolf is the hero.Dolf looks a little perplexed.DOLFWhitewater rafting is a rush.DYLANSo, you want to go again?DOLFSure.JACKIENo.Donna walks up from the raft-shack by the river's edge.DONNAReady to go?

INT. BRITISH COLOMBIA MOUNTIE DETACHMENT - SAMEA fax machine churns out a single sheet of paper. At the top it reads: Bulletin! Walking by the fax, a Mountie grabs the paper and walks it in to the next room.In the room several Mounties work with communications equipment. He hands it to a COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, who switches on his mike. He sets down the piece of paper: A photo of Dylan at the border is on it. COMMUNICATIONS OFFICERAPB Alert. Attention, this is an APB Alert for a white Ford van driven by a Caucasian male approximately twenty-five years of age in connection with a suspected murder. Last seen at the southern border, headed north. Believed to be heading for the border with Alaska. There are several passengers in the van. Use extreme caution, they are believed to be armed and dangerous.

EXT. CANADIAN HWY 97 - THAT NIGHTThe trek van roars along the Caribou Highway, deeper into British Columbia. Two huge totem poles tower in the darkness lit from below along the side of the road.INT. VAN - SAMEDylan has a look of determination in his eyes as he squints down the darkening road.KIMYou told him!?DYLANI had to tell him... He could see it wasn't picnic gear!DOLF--but what if he does say something? We will all go to jail!DONNAShut up, Dolf! Brian won't say anything. DOLFHow do we know he won't?DONNAWe have a little arrangement.Donna sits back in the second row with her arms crossed and a smug expression on her face.Dylan whirls his head around and raises both eyebrows.DOLFWhat?DONNAWe have an understanding.Dylan starts to laugh, letting go of the wheel and clapping his hands together in appreciation.DYLANWe were only there another fifteen minutes!Donna nods proudly.DONNAI'm quick and I'm good.DOLFThat's disgusting!Kim leans up over the seat and joins in.KIMI can't believe you would do such a thing with Jan's body not more than twenty feet away.The van erupts with everyone yelling their opinions over the seats.JOYou should talk.DONNAIf I hadn't done it we would all be sitting in a Canadian jail right now.Dylan looks back at Donna with a smile.DYLANDonna, you are my hero.

EXT. CANADIAN HWY 97 - SUNRISEThe trek van races into the first rays of the sunrise.Standing alongside of the road in the morning is a lone hitchhiker. The van blows by him as he holds his thumb out, waving madly for them to stop: It's Thad, Jan's brother. Thad runs after the van for twenty yards or so, gives up, then watches it drive away.